It also spawned several hit singles – including the chart-topper Someone Like You – as well as kick-starting the singer’s US career.

Susan Boyle’s management have denied that her new album will be delayed in favour of Adele (Picture: PA)

Adele has largely remained out of the limelight since giving birth to her first child last autumn, although did enjoy further success with her theme from the James Bond movie Skyfall.

The notoriously publicity-shy singer took to the red carpet earlier this year to pick up both a Golden Globe and an Oscar for the track – the first Bond theme to win an Academy Award.

Meanwhile, representatives for Susan Boyle have denied that her forthcoming album has been shelved in order to make way for Adele’s new record.

There had been reports that the Britain’s Got Talent star’s newest release would be put back until later in 2014 – but her management have now taken to Twitter to confirm the album will be released earlier.

‘Contrary to reports in press today, Susan’s 5th album is in full flow, not been put on hold for any other artist,’ a statement on her page read. ‘Global release winter 2013.’